PUCSL warns against unauthorised statements on power interruptions 

PUCSL Chairman Janaka Ratnayake 

• As per the Act, transmission licensees have to obtain prior approval of PUCSL for every scheduled power interruption
• Chairman Janaka Ratnayake advises CEB to prevent from carrying out unauthorised power interruptions, making public announcements on such interruptions 
• Says PUCSL will not take responsibility for legal repercussions

The electricity sector regulator, Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) yesterday said it will “not hold responsibility” on legal repercussions that may arise due to unauthorised statements made with regards to power interruptions.

“The Commission has observed that various parties are making statements to the general public through media regarding scheduled power interruptions by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB).

However, it should be reminded to all parties that PUCSL has the sole authority to permit power interruptions and the announcement,” PUCSL Chairman Janaka Ratnayake told the Daily FT. 

In terms of the powers vested under Section 3 (b) of the Sri Lanka Electricity Act, the PUCSL is regulating licensing functions. As per condition 30 (10) of Transmission and Bulk Supply License, the transmission licensee shall obtain prior approval of the Commission for every scheduled power interruption. 

“The PUCSL has the authority to permit power interruptions of the transmission licensee and any public announcement in that regard will be made by the Commission. The transmission licensee (CEB) is therefore advised to prevent from carrying out unauthorised power interruptions and making public announcements on such interruptions,” Ratnayake said.

He also said that parties that are making such statements may not be aware that the proper legal authority on permitting such power interruptions is vested with the PUCSL.